Giving News

Children's Celebrates its Volunteers

4/30/2008

Volunteer Services at Children's Hospital Central California celebrated the hard work and dedication of its volunteers during National Volunteer Week.

This year's theme is "Volunteers Plant the Seeds of Kindness." In keeping with the theme and because our volunteers demonstrate kindness in action, a tree was planted in their honor just outside the main hospital entrance.

"The hospital would not be what it is today without the selfless dedication, caring and compassion on the part of the many volunteers who offer their time and talent," said Erin Collins, manager of Volunteer Services.

Children's President and CEO William Haug reflected on the impact volunteers have had on the hospital over the past 50 years. Just in the past year alone, 550 volunteers have donated more than 47,000 hours of service in 41 different areas around the hospital.

"On behalf of all of us…we thank you so much for all that you do," Haug said.

Tim Steele of Steele Scapes donated the Red Oak tree. A bronze plaque imbedded in a memorial stone in front of the tree reads "In Honor of Our Volunteers 2008."

Following the tree planting ceremony, volunteers were treated to cake, cookies and drinks during a reception in the Donor Recognition Area.

Volunteers also received a button, seeds and a Honey Locus tree so they can continue to plant seeds of kindness.

Volunteer AwardsDuring National Volunteer Week, Volunteer Services announced the 2008 winners of its annual Volunteer Awards.

Big Heart Award: Taylor Leech

Rookie of the Year Award: Courtney Drew

Helping Hand Award: Ramiro Chavez

National Volunteer Week was created in 1974 when President Richard Nixon signed an executive order to establish the week as an annual celebration of volunteering. And every year since that time, each U.S. President, along with many governors, mayors and other elected officials, has signed a proclamation promoting National Volunteer Week.